The world of whisk(e)y can be intimidating for beginners, spanning multiple continents and going by a variety of different names. Sometimes that intimidation can be enough to put one off venturing into the world of whiskey at all - but don’t turn back so soon! Bourbon is a great whiskey to get stuck into as a beginner, and lucky for you, we’ve picked out 8 bourbons we think are perfect for falling in love with this spirit.
Bulleit Bourbon
Bulleit Bourbon is made from a unique blend of rye, corn, and barley malt, along with special strains of yeast and pure Kentucky limestone-filtered water. Flavour is king in this bourbon with its notes of vanilla, orange and subtle winter spices, and even better, you won’t be paying the earth for it either. Take Bulleit Bourbon neat or over ice for an American treat or simply mix with cloves, lemon juice, brown sugar and hot water for a comforting Hot Toddy.
ABV: 45%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find it here: UK £28.99 // US $39.99
Woodford Reserve Kentucky Bourbon
If you’re looking for a bourbon to sip while looking pensive, Woodford Reserve is for you. It has a higher rye percentage than other bourbons, meaning it’s got a spicy, peppery kick to it! Woodford Reserve is warming, but won’t leave a burn in the back of your throat either, making it great for beginners looking for something smooth. The high rye content also makes this perfect for an Old Fashioned!
ABV: 43.2%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find it here: UK £32.01 // US $36.99
Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon
FYI: No turkeys were harmed in the production of this bourbon. Wild Turkey 101 is a fantastic first foray into higher proof whiskey and bourbon, with its rich but peppery caramel flavours tasty but not overpowering. If you’re new to bourbon, the high alcohol content of Wild Turkey might be a bit intense on the tongue, but this can be softened with a drop of water (which is totally okay to do, so don’t be scared). This is one for sipping!
ABV: 50.5%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find it here: £29.95 // US $31.99
Eagle Rare 10 Year Old
What could be more American than an eagle? Eagle Rare comes from the legendary Buffalo Trace distillery in Kentucky, where bourbon has been made for over 200 years! Without that aggressive bite that other bourbons can bring, Eagle Rare 10 Year Old is silky smooth and very drinkable. You’ll get honey, burnt caramel and vanilla on the tongue, with a classic bourbon oakiness on the finish - perfect for someone looking for a solid bourbon at a great price.
ABV: 45%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find it here: £36.99 // US $119.89
Knob Creek
Knob Creek boasts a bold, full bodied, flavourful punch of bourbon - as is evident by the higher than usual alcohol content. This is brilliant for beginners, as the price tag is very reasonable for such a rich, smooth bourbon. The notes of vanilla, oak and fruit are best appreciated when taken neat, and once you reach that spicy finish: you’ll be hooked!
ABV: 50%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find it here: UK £33.44 // US $36.99
Four Roses Bourbon
Don’t underestimate Four Roses because of its price, this bourbon is a delicious introduction to the spirit at a price that won’t leave you reeling! Beautifully balanced with notes of marmalade, honey, cinnamon and oak, Four Roses is great for mixing in a bourbon cocktail (such as an Old Fashioned) or simply taken neat! When you’re looking to step up your bourbon game, Four Roses also has a great 100 Proof!
ABV: 40%
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
Find it here: UK £23.90 // US $19.99
Maker’s Mark Bourbon
The beautiful, dripping red wax on Maker’s Mark’s bottle almost makes you not want to break the seal. However, we definitely recommend you do - as you don’t want to miss out on the rich flavour Maker’s Mark brings to the table with this bourbon. You’ll get delicious notes of vanilla and burnt oak on the palate, and a bit of spice on the finish. We love Maker’s Mark in a Manhattan (not just because of the alliteration), but do try it neat too!
ABV: 45%
Size: UK 700ml // US 1.75l
Find it here: UK £32 // US $52.99
Evan Williams Bourbon
Evan Williams has been producing this bourbon since (wait for it) 1783! Now that, my dear friend, is a damn long time to have been making bourbon. You can certainly see why, as this whiskey is so moreish that you’ll have to get another bottle! We love the smoothness of Evan Williams, especially with those delicious caramel and vanilla notes coming through. At such a great price, this bottle is a big winner when it comes to beginner bourbons - so why not give it a try?
ABV: 43%
Size: UK 700ml // US 1.75l
Find it here: UK £26.99 // US $22.99
For more bourbon content have a look at The Best Bang for Buck Sipping Bourbon and to find out our top whiskey recommendations for an Old Fashioned click here!
*Prices updated September 2022.